Graduate Focus SAE Institute: Chris Russell

Answered by: Chris Russell

Name of institution you studied at: SAE Institute

Years attended: 2012 - 2014

What course did you study and why? I studied the Bachelor of Audio Production to learn how to engineer professional-quality audio projects for studio recordings and post-production soundtracks. My aim was to start a career in the audio industry upon completion.

Why did you choose to study at this particular institution? I chose to study at SAE Sydney due to its close proximity to the CBD and the newly built studio facilities. Also, the two-year duration was appealing compared to other institutions.

What's the one piece of advice you got during your time there that you still follow today? Use your ears!

How did your course prepare you for the real world applications of what you studied? Collaborating with other students and industry professionals taught us how to deal with people on a professional level, which is helpful for students who don't have prior real-world experience and is a desirable skill for potential employers.

Give us the quick resume version of what you have done since finishing studying. I have been working as a broadcast engineer for the Seven Network at their Martin Place studios in Sydney. Our team maintains all of the broadcast equipment and audiovisual requirements for over ten hours of live television a day.

Any advice for anyone looking to study at this institution? SAE offers plenty of opportunities for those who are willing to put the effort in, make use of the available industry connections and collaborate with students studying other courses such as film and design to get the most out of your time at SAE.